Direct use is the utilization of low to moderate temperature geothermal resources (68 to 302 degrees Fahrenheit) for commercial, residential, public facilities, or energy needs other than the commercial production of electricity. Geologists predict 90 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit water underground in Aspen. Direct use includes using heat energy from naturally occurring hot water or using other technology (like heat pumps) to capture the heat from the Earth.

Other modern direct use systems access geothermal reservoirs by drilling into them from the surface to develop a steady stream of hot water. Water is brought up through a well and a mechanical system, consisting of piping, a heat exchanger, and controls delivers the heat directly for its intended purpose. A disposal system then injects the cooled water underground or disposes of it on the surface. Direct use applications include: